Trustee's Meeting Aug 13, 2008

Epworth United Methodist Church

Board of Trustees

Minutes - August 13, 2008

Present: Ron S, Brad B, Kelly B, Brian K, Pastor David Newhouse, Jan S

Good News Items: Brad spread 10 yards of mulch last Saturday; more is needed.

Ron reported that the west border is being cleaned up by the Friday Morning Guys.

The July 9 minutes were approved as printed.

Storm Damage Report: Ron reported that the recent storm caused flooding in M5 and half of the lower level; part of a large tree came down. Servicemaster dried things out for a cost of $960. Ron is investigating the purchase of a sump pump.

Outreach Support: Ron attended a meeting of the Outreach Committee and reported that the committee has requested donations of minutes on nonbusiness cell phones for a couple of hours each evening during the calling process as well as volunteers to make calls.

There was discussion about the addition of a third Sunday morning service and the importance of the timing of these services. Ron will handle synchronizing all the clocks in the church to facilitate accurate timing for the services.

Residence Demolition: The inspector’s report on the demolition of Roy’s residence revealed asbestos in caulking around windows as well as some ducts and in 12 x 12 floor tile. The barn is asbestos-free. Bryan is getting three bids on remediation and having the two buildings removed for the next meeting; then a recommendation can be prepared and a charge conference will be held.

New Sign Installation: The new sign for Randall Road can be delivered next Friday. Brian will coordinate the installation and it was suggested he can call Ron Hecht for assistance. Bill Mingus will be contacted to move flowers/plantings. The old sign will be reinstalled at the west entrance later.

Ongoing Projects:

The kitchen hood and fire system – A sounder will be installed in the kitchen this week, then inspections can be done and Brian can do the finish work. The project, including painting, is targeted to be finished by Thanksgiving.

Parlor remodel - Brian will work toward early September completion.

Community Room upgrade - Lights are here, and Al will manage the installation. Kelly will get flooring prices from Rick Rakow.

Bathroom remodel – No progress to report. Al is getting estimates.

Sealcoating is done on the main drive and lower parking lot and we are awaiting well completion to finish the project and add more handicapped and visitor signage.

The well permit has been obtained, and the drilling will begin shortly.

Walk-on Items: Jan moved and Ron seconded a request from the Finance Committee to transfer moving Robert McCormic Memorial funds to the Multi Media fund to cover the cost of the additional lens for the projector. Motion carried.

David asked the Trustees to consider development of a landscaping plan to include such elements as a Memorial Garden, picnic area, tree planting schedule, parking expansion, geothermal energy, and playground relocation. Brad will take on this project, including working with Karen B and Amy Z about their garden project for next spring.

The group toured the area over the Sonrise Room to consider replacing cedar shingles, plywood, etc. Brian will open up the railing to see where water gets into the room below to determine how we should move forward.

Ron closed with prayer and the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Jan S

Missions Committee Meeting June 8, 2008

Epworth UMC

Mission Committee Minutes

June 8, 2008

Present: Co-Chairs: Alyson B and Diane L. Members: Shelia B, Kelley S, Kara , Pastor David, and Mary R.F.

1. Pastor David presented information from the Annual Conference regarding the Children of Kenya Choir and concert date at Pheasant Run and 100 tickets to sell. Pastor David also presented a suggestion for a mission trip to China for next year. The cost will probably be about $3000 p/person.

2. Minutes presented, Kara made a motion to accept, seconded by Diane and passed unanimously.

3. Meals on Wheels: We need volunteers for May 27-30. J F will take 5/28, Shelia will take 5/30, Ginny will take a day, which will only leave Tuesday. If you know of any other possible people who would be able to help with this important project, please contact Alyson.

4. The Soup Kettle is this Tuesday, June 17^th at Zion Lutheran Church from 4-6:30pm. Next month, Mary R.F. will again check the church for determining the meal and will meet with J F to check out his supply of fresh vegetables on Monday for the meal on Tuesday.

5. PADS continues to need volunteers on the 2^nd Wednesday of the month, which is June 11^th. The volunteers for this month so far will be J F., Alyson B, Kelley S & Mary R F.

6. May food collection for the Food Pantry will be fruit juices and mixes (koolaids, etc)

7. The July Rainbow Covenant Project collection will be for Soup Kettle.

8. Elgin Christian Development Corporation – Alyson asked the committee for our regular two-month donation. Motion made by Sheila and seconded by Mary and passed unanimously.

Old Business:

9. Red Cross Flood Buckets and Health Kits – Mary R F has five more empty buckets for the project and will bring them to church this week. Supplies will be put away for the summer and placed behind the couch in the Youth Room.

10. PADS Thank You Cookout for Volunteers was really wonderful and well attended.

11. Hostas Plant Sale to benefit the Heifer Project made $317 during the Garage Sale. . Kara B has information regarding a match for funds grant from Bill Gates. Kara will also contact Paul Burris with this information before he sends our check to the Heifer Project.

12. Nothing but Nets Project – the final collection report was $350. Kara B has information regarding a match for funds grant from Bill Gates. . Kara will also contact Paul B with this information before he sends our check to the Nothing but Nets Project.

13. The Mission Committee is responsible for coffee during the month of August. Mary B said she can set up and start the coffee before the first service and J will clean up after the second service. We sill need one or two volunteers to help them each week. MRF will send out an e-mail near the end of July to cover this activity.

14. Meals on Wheels – Alyson reported that some people are having trouble with location directions, especially when a meal is cancelled. We need to find a way to recover directions when a cancellation occurs. After much discussion, Kelley suggested that our volunteers simply call her because she is almost always at a computer and can easily check MapQuest for the best directions.

15. Taste of Epworth: Our table will be a Salsa table and MRF will send out a sign up sheet for volunteers and supplies this week.

New Business:

16. Box Tops for Education – Kara will continue for work on this project and will get samples of the box top items to Jackie for the bulletin and newsletter.

17. Coffee Cups – Shelia presented an idea to discontinue using styrofoam cups and change to paper cups the next time we order coffee cups for church. Shelia and Kelley will research costs.

18. Suggestion by Mary R F to have an on-line meeting for the month of July. Alyson will put together an agenda and MRF will send it out and collect replies and put into minute form and then re-send out to the committee for more on-line discussion.

Respectfully Submitted: Mary R F, Secretary

Next Mission Meeting (on-line) will be July 13, 2008. (due to Summer)

Next Mission Meeting will be August 10, 2008 at 11:00am. (due to 10am Summer Service)

Next Mission Meeting will be September 14, 2008 at 9:45am. (back to regular schedule)

Education Committee Meeting July 31, 2008

EDUCATION MEETING

July 31, 2008

In Attendance: Carole B, David B, Ginny C, Carol L, Mollie O, Jay R, Amy Z, and Kelly A

Amy opened the meeting with a spiritual reading and a prayer.

Blast off registration will begin on Sept. 7 with the official first day being Sept. 14.

September 14^th will also be Bible Sunday for the third graders (Kelly is working on the covers)

Keeping in line with outreach campaign we will utilize the space/star themes – we can reuse décor!!!

Activities will be available in the basement on the 7^th for kids to partake in and meet the teachers/other kids.

Teaching Needs:

2 & 3 year old – Carol L

4 year olds & kindergarten – Ginny C and David

1^st & 2^nd – Amy Z

3^rd & 4^th – Kelly A

5^th & 6^th – Jay R

7^th & 8^th – Kara B

9^th – 12^th – Mollie and Wally O

Adult classes – Women under Spiritual Construction, Men’s class, and Current Events

Amy will put something in the bulletin to seek teachers and teachers for new idea classes-Christianity 101 and a young adult’s class.

Kara will teach using movie focus/films for discussion-get resources from Mollie.

Need to find assistant/additional teacher for Jr. High and other classrooms.

Check with Nadia-continue to teach sr. High?

Let everyone know as soon as you know there is an absence coming, in order to schedule replacement teachers.

Still looking out for curriculum, but not finding the right fit…will keep looking.

Add into promotions, God and Country program now offered-to proffer Boy and Girl Scouts of America. We will utilize this program as our fall curriculum.

We need to find a person to do crowd control for Sunday School-directing folks to rooms and classes perhaps in the tower.

Additional resources available: One minute bible lessons, hands on curriculum (summer section), lessons from past few years. Will check into different libraries for more and many supplies are in the closet – if not there, ask Amy.

Offering needs to be stressed again.

Page 2

Dec. 7-Christmas Program, tied to shopping project/mission for the kids.

5pm potluck/6pm program. A few are being looked into to hopefully tie into the Outreach campaign.

Live Nativity will be a December activity, Kelly will keep everyone posted.

Week after the Christmas Program will be the ideal week. Last year it was a Saturday, so this year it will be Dec. 13 tentatively.

Need to label the stereos for each room.

And have a space poster for each room with grade information.-Kara

Attendance books will be in the sanctuary for sign in and then brought downstairs for sign out.

Have mom’s group on Wed. with Discovery Club which will stay in the balcony

The Carson’s days are coming up-fundraising monies available.

Next meeting: Monday, Aug. 18^th 7pm

Respectfully Submitted with help from Kara’s notes,

Kelly A

Community Outreach Meeting July 14, 2008

If you are curious to the minutes from our Community Outreach meeting on July 14. They can also be viewed on our blog!

Come check us out at:

http://epworthoutreach.livejournal.com/

Church Council Meeting 6-24-08

Church Council Meeting, 6-24-08

Program Focus

Members Present: Pastor David, Carole and Paul B, Kara B, David and Ginny C, Vickie A, JeanE & Dick B and Debbie E.

Gathering Time:

Carole welcomed those present and opened the meeting with prayer.

Mechanics:

Minutes of the May meeting were reviewed and corrections noted; Kara moved to approve the corrected minutes; Ginny C. seconded. All voted aye. The “new format” July/August Calendar was presented and passed…Carole requested corrections and/or additions to be “penciled in”.

Witness:

Sign - Kara shared the Notice of Grant Acceptance for the new sign was received. The United Methodist Communications grant, $9700, will fund approximately one-half the cost of an electronic signboard. (Thanks to Cara Newhouse for sharing the grant information). Installation is anticipated in August. Plans are being developed to move the present sign to the Highland Avenue side of our property.

Outreach – Dancing with The Star – David C. -the Outreach Committee has inquired how all church committees can help with the project to “rev up” in August; the entire church congregation should be involved. The Worship committee Task Force has proposed adding a 3^rd service on Sunday …to be a “different” type of service – interactive with a wide variety of music and drama. The talents and skills, honed by our Epworth youth involvement with Children’s Theater of Elgin, will enhance the “new service”. A questionnaire/ survey will be developed regarding service times.

Website Update - Kara shared the new website design and features from the hosting company will provide exciting possibilities for sharing Epworth activities and information with the addition of new Links. The “directory” may be modified upon request (remove names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses). A computer may be set up in the Community Room to “show and share” with the congregation.

Resource & support Areas:

Finance & Other Pockets campaign - Paul distributed Balance Sheet and Budget information…. income, compared to last year, is “up” about $1,400. The Other Pockets campaign has contributed nearly $11,000 toward several planned projects.

Trustees Update – The trustees are in “overload” – following is a task-list synopsis:

- The Stove Hood project has been delayed once again…the installation company has commercial client deadlines…looking toward the end of July for completion.

- Replacement water well , perhaps as deep as 600 feet, is on schedule to be drilled after VBS

- Olwin relatives have released the house (on EUMC property); trustees are obtaining bids relating to asbestos removal/remediation and whole house and garage removal.

- The church roof has demonstrated serious leak problems over the south upper level and must be replaced.

- Parking lot needs resealing and re-lining…. project to begin next month (July).

- Other Pockets funds distribution: $7K, New Community Room lighting…. will be very intense or modulating…

- Al R will “do” at cost. $4K, Bathroom(s) update/remodel…to include handicapped accessible features

- Eternal Flame – thanks again to Al R for installing in the sanctuary chancel area.

Nurture People in Faith

Taste of Epworth Review – 12 booths/committees participated; profit total was approximately $450. Discussion followed regarding use of the funds. Suggestions were: Ginny C., Flood Buckets; David C., the Outreach Committee; Kelly A. should also be consulted…. decision postponed. Suggestions for next year included…. schedule the Taste during the winter months, check the community calendar, include some other activity such as a “car show”, and a “drive- through” option.

Sharing other topics

Education – Planning fall programming - Amy hopes to have additional young-child classes

Child Care – Debbie….Mary Ann Lucas has been hired as Childcare Coordinator and “loves the job so far”. Child Care meetings will be held in the fall…Debbie has been “assisting” Mary Ann for the first few weeks

New Creations – will be more involved with other areas of hospitality within the church especially welcoming new visitors

Member Care – planning Neighborhood-group gatherings with 10-12 families involved

Parking Lot – new resurfacing will occur shortly –will be “well driven” (working around the new well drilling/installation)

Out Reach – “reaching out” plans are progressing

Communication –How will people respond to the New website which will enhance our “sharing the good news”?

Women and Men’s Groups – activities should be planned for varying age groups

Staff Parish – search letter sent to District Superintendent for an Associate Pastor (approximately 30 hours/ week) - must have a passion for working with children’s groups and be am integral part of the Youth Group

Church Council, 6-24-08

Page 2

Other Topics continued

Building – many projects on the committee’s To Do List … all being addressed

Stewardship – Planning for fall campaign

Worship – Outdoor (second) service planned for August 17^th to be held in Tent from previous-day Annual Barbeque community vent. EUMC plans - Praise Band Worship service, pet blessing and meal ….bring own meat and dish-to-pass;

the 8:30 service will be held as usual in the sanctuary.

Pastor David – Two main comments comments re: Dancing with the Star

- 1. “This is a priority for the whole congregation…really a cause for radical consideration…must do the best job possible….we must be very thoughtful in how we reach people – to let them ‘see’ how their lives can be changed … this project IS the primary mission and goal for this year…may put other projects on the shelf to allow us to reach the Star goal which could chart the course for future congregations….”

- 2. “What have we heard from the people (congregation) about the ‘Star’ plan?” Answers were ‘not much feedback’,

‘Why do we need to be larger – we’re big enough’, ‘new people do not contribute financially – won’t we be more in

the hole’, ‘it’s about time – making a building doesn’t mean people will come’. In jest, it was suggested we levy a $50 fine for negative comments.

Sharing Joys and Concerns through Prayer

Pastor David spoke of an important event - a Children’s Choir from Kenya will be performing at Pheasant Run on July 27^th EUMC should have a “good representation”. Donations (in lieu of ticket price) collected will be used for missionary work for homeless children in Kenya. Bonnie K, after many years’ service, has resigned from the New Creations Preschool Board.

The meeting was adjourned with prayer.

Respectfully submitted,

Ginny J, Recording Secretary

Finance Committee Meeting June 10, 2008

Financial Committee Minutes

June 10, 2008

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Address negative balances in a couple accounts
• Discuss the budget and the need to increase giving; how to address this

In attendance: Bill B, Joe B, Dick B, Carole B, Pastor David N, Ron S and Susan C.

Approval of Minutes: Carole moved that we approve the minutes of the last meeting. Bill seconded. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report: The Building/Remodel Construction Fund (597F) has a shortfall of $2,931.06. After some discussion, Ron moved that we transfer funds from the Grace Parsonage Gift Fund (596T) to cover this shortage. Bill seconded. Motion passed.

The Missions account (700C) has carried a shortage of $753.89 since the mission trip to Montana last summer. Do we ask those who went on the mission to cover the expense?

Do we know how to contact everyone? Since this is a year old, we agreed to ask the Missions Committee for help to find a way to cover some of the shortage or to offer suggestions for ways to cover it. Susan will speak with Alyson.

The question was asked if we still have money left to spend on the parsonage. Last year, the amount approved for the parsonage was $400,000. Of that, $375,000 was spent to purchase the parsonage. The balance of $25,000 is the “hard limit” available to be spent on the parsonage over the first 3 years we own it.

Susan will ask Paul if we have paid for the convection ovens.

New Business

July and August Meetings: The July meeting will be postponed a week due to Vacation Bible School. However, it will be on Wed. July 16 rather that Tues. Discussion of the August meeting was postponed until July.

Budget: Pastor David reminded us that the purpose of the Finance Committee is to find ways to fund projects. We need to help the congregation discover the importance of being part of the financial base, to honor their commitment. We need to help them discover the joy of giving – that church should be at the top of their list not the bottom.

Giving is a spiritual issue not financial. If the congregation won’t support the budget, our outreach effort begins to paint a not-so-pretty picture. What are our priorities?

We will dedicate the July meeting to finding ways to increase giving. The health/life of our church depends on this. At their May meeting, the Church Council discussed ways to increase giving. We will use those to jump start our discussion at our July meeting.

Old Business

“Other Pockets”: We have made approximately $11,000 to date. After the $4350 in fees, we can spend $6650. Ron moved that we allocate $3000 to replace the lights in the community Room and $4000 to refurbish the washrooms off the SonRise Room. Dick seconded. Motion passed.

Annual Rummage Sale: The proceeds were $4700.

Taste of Epworth: We have the drinks booth.

Capital Campaign 2009: A place marker for now

Adjourned at 8:35 P.M. Next meeting is Wednesday July 16, 2008 at 7:00 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Susan C

Stewarship Committee Meeting June 8, 2008

Stewardship Committee Meeting Minutes

Present: Steve M, David N, Bob & Waunetta B, Don & Carol T, Carole B, Kara B & Keith P

Meditation Station

Stewardship theme for this quarter is being in service. Carole is in the process of taking down the Prayer Meditation Station from the last quarter emphasis. These will be replaced with new stations that focus on service. Carole had two ideas. One being a poster with post it notes with opportunities for service to others. Another one would be kind of honey do jar of needs around Epworth. Help was needed compiling a list of service opportunities.

Taste of Epworth

This Saturday is Taste of Epworth. Stewardship is responsible for Sis kabob Sticks.

Saturday Taste of Epworth. The fee will be $1.50 for meat & &1.00 for veggie. Various members volunteered to prepare sis kabob and to cook/serve them. Keith said he would take care of getting grills.

Fall Campaign

David presented material from the 33 Laws of Stewardship. It is a book with a study guide. The cost of the material is about $9 a giving unit. Individual would be asked to donate to the cost of the material. The Study guide had daily activities relating to a topic. David would also tie the sermons tied into the five basic laws;

Hilarious generosity- True generosity

Purposeful blessing-True purpose

Graceful abundance-True faiths

Unconditional contentment-True satisfaction

Loving compliance-True commitment

Mailing related to the topic would be sent out at a specific period. There would also be Sunday School material for youth & adults, including daily reading, daily reflection & daily responses.

David expressed a concern about the clarity of message. With Dancing with The Star Emphasis the question was how to integrate the two together. We will have to watch on other distractions.

Key issues were:

How to be a receptive church to the people God sends us from Dancing

How are other small groups integrated, work at synergy?

Integrating with the spring finance campaign

Coordination with the outreach team on themes/banners

Looking for a powerful integrated campaign

Finance Committee Meeting May 13, 2008

Financial Committee Minutes

May 13, 2008

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Review of some incorrect numbers in April Treasurer’s report.
• Review/report of reallocation of bequest and memorial funds
• Developing consistent procedures for bringing proposals to Finance

In attendance: Bill B, Joe B, Carole B, Pastor David N, Carol W, and Susan C.

Approval of Minutes: Bill moved, and Joe seconded, that we approve the minutes of the last meeting. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report: In Paul’s absence Carole shared his notes with the committee. In the 599T Bequest fund, Paul discovered some funds had been left in a no longer existing “Church Decorating” sub account. He used it to partially offset a negative balance in the “Undesignated” sub account under this same 599T account. From the March report, the pastor's pension amount had been put into pastor's insurance. This was corrected in April. Also, the pastor's salary has an extra $900 in it because part of his housing for 2007 had not been paid as per the staff parish. Paul is concerned that the Parsonage Fund has only a $300 balance and air conditioning has not yet been installed.

New Business

Reallocation of Memorial/Bequest Funds: Susan reported to the committee That she had met with Pastor David, Ron S and Jan S to look at the Bequest Fund and find funds to cover some overages for the kitchen hood project and the projector. The proposed reallocation is to move $1,000 from Capital Reserves and $4,599 from the Building Projects fund. Of that, $!,099 will go to the projector and the remaining $4,500 to the kitche hood project. She asked the committee to approve the reallocation. Carol W. moved; Bill seconded. Motion passed.

Old Business

Other Pockets: Susan informed the committee that an anonymous donor had offered to increase any monies received from economic stimulus checks. Our first mailing has gone out, and the second one will go next week. The final mainling with a commitment card will be mailed to arrive during the week prior to June 1.

Annual Rummage Sale: Susan contacted Janis to offer the help of the Finance Committee since this is our biggest fundraiser.

Taste of Epworth: Susan signed up Finance for drinks. We should have our booth “name” by June 8. Taste is June 21 from 3-7 with set up prior to, and take down afterwards. If anyone has any clever or creative ideas, please bring them forth.

Other: Carole shared with the committee that Church Council had discussed a variety of ways to increase giving. Several were mentioned including asking members to double their monthly commitment amount for one month.

Carole and Susan together will develop a procedure for committees to follow so that as soon as a project is known to have cost overruns, that can be brought to Finance. Finance needs to have information so that we are able to describe, define and/or defend additional funds spent on projects. We will also work on creating a procedure for bringing original proposals to Finance so that everyone is aware of what is necessary for consideration and/or funding.

Capital Campaign 2009: A place marker for now

Adjourned at 8:20 P.M. Next meeting is Tuesday, June 10, 2008 at 7:00 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Susan C, Chair

Community Outreach 6-23-08

The minutes can be viewed on our Community Outreach Blog site: blog: http://epworthoutreach.livejournal.com/2740.html#cutid1

Check it out and see what has been going on with our Dancing With THE Star calling!

Youth Ministry Sites

http://youth-ministry.info/articles.php5?type=2&cat=150&art_id=42

This is a great article for youth ministry leaders, focusing on process and creativity vital to the success of any program ministry. It was a great read.

Church Council Minutes, April 2008

Members Present: Carole and Paul Burris, Pastor David, Gloria Clark, Kara Berg, David and Ginny Comings, Susan Collins, Patti Floyd, Kelly Akemann, Vickie Akemann, Amy Zapata, Keith Paskiewicz, Ron Stout, Guests: Mentors and Confirmees: Steve Mink and Nick Rager, Barb DeMoulen and Mackenzie Luzen, Mareen Stanley and Tessa Hanlon, Barb Greenwald and Kathryn Bohner.

Gathering Time:

Carole welcomed our guests, four 2008 confirmands and mentors, and briefly explained the purpose of the Church Council and the alternating monthly agenda focus. Keith offered a prayer to formally open the meeting.

Mechanics:

The Church Calendar was passed for additions and/or corrections. The March minutes were reviewed. Ginny C. moved to accept the minutes; Keith seconded the motion; motion passed.

Resource & Support Areas:

Treasurer - Paul distributed March 31^st Balance Sheet and Budget Summary. He emphasized all receipts must be presented to the specific committee chair for approval and signature before submitting (to Paul) for payment.

Finance - Susan Collins explained the “Out of Pockets” fund-raising campaign. April 27^th will be the “kick-off” date for this new project to be explained/presented to the congregation. She reiterated, during the December Church Council meeting, the Council voted memorial/bequests funds be utilized for specific projects. Some project costs have exceeded budget. Susan inquired if Council approval is required to fund the over runs; discussion ensued; and, from the $49K budgeted, the following will be re-allocated: $6,900 from the Capital Replacement account, $4,100 from Building, and $5,000 to complete the mechanical requirements for the fire suppression system.

Budget vs Income – Carole shared our “giving is way down”. Easter collections were less than expected; no special Easter envelopes were mailed (to the congregation) - was that a factor?? Carole asked for suggestions on ways to inspire giving on a regular basis and make giving a priority. Compared to other churches, EUMC giving is very “low”. How can we make persons feel they are an integral part of the church? Nick Rager suggested telling the story of the widow who “gave all she had”. Others suggested double giving for one month, Catch-up Sunday, Ginny C. shared the enthusiasm an outside speaker may generate, Pastor David stated, “it’s a blessing to give”, David C. suggested “overflow” (spare $), Susan C. suggested an example- giving up “one coffee a day”. No firm or final consensus.

Annual Rummage Sale, May 30^th and 31^st – help will be needed the prior week for sorting, pricing, etc.

Keith suggested placing a Rummage Sale sign be affixed to the Boy Scout trailer; then, moving the trailer to the west side of Randall Road EUMC property) for high visibility.

Nuture People in Faith:

Taste of Epworth, June 21^st, 3-7 PM: Kelly A: Theme will be Dancing with the Star. Set up will occur on the same-day morning. Still needed: committees to sign up for their choice of “courses”. Discussion followed regarding ticket prices, size of portions, voting for the best (food, booth???), and the Traveling Pig prize. Perhaps the Youth Band will provide entertainment.

Trustees Update - Ron Stout shared the following: the tower entrance and hallway have been freshly painted; Al Rohde is interested in several “improvement” projects (bathrooms, Sacristy-area shelving, etc.); Brian Kirmse is planning a “mostly-outside” Saturday Workday; Kelly Brown and Brian K. are discussing additional wall paint; installation of the hood and fire suppress system should commence shortly. The upstairs entrance door will be moved to the west end of the parlor and become the “main upstairs” entrance… (the “old door will be gone”)…which will allow the parlor to become a “nice meeting room”. He met with the Pingree Grove Fire Chief regarding the (based upon square footage) sprinkler requirements; no sprinklers are necessary which reduces the required size of the well.

Page 2, Church Council, April 22, 2008

Nuture People in Faith (continued)

Reflection Centers- Carole explained and identified the various areas located throughout the church designed for individual reflection and prayer. In May, the Centers’ focus will be changed to “the how and why of service”.

Dancing with the Star meeting – May 5^th, 7 PM: This gathering will focus on the upcoming campaign to share ideas and “gear up” for the fall and “recap” the plans.

Witness:

Sign Update – Kara: The current Highland & Randall sign will be replaced with a new taller, wider, digital sign. Kara “found” a grant from the United Methodist Communications Division. Designs have been submitted to the County and, following approval, the sign can be installed within six weeks. We are seeking installation assistance from the congregation such as welding, pouring concrete, electrical connections, etc. Kara asked all present to “take charge” of finding persons to help with this project.

Sharing of other Topics

Youth Director, Mollie Denman, is “retiring” at the end of May…the Youth are planning the retirement farewell event. Search is underway for a Youth Director. The Staff Parish Committee will appreciate suggestions and recommendations for this position.

Parsonage – the yard has been smoothed and topsoil spread. Trees (purchased last fall and “wintered over”) will be planted shortly. Sidewalks and the driveway are installed. Bids for the Air Conditioning are being sought.

Prayers from the People

Several concerns were voiced. Specific healing prayers are requested for Charlotte Kwan and Patti Floyd’s Mother’.

The meeting was adjourned. Our next meeting date is May 27^th.

Mission Committee Minutes 3-08

Present: Co-Chairs: Alyson B and Diane L. Members: Pastor David, Mary B, J F, Shelia B, Sandy K, Kelly S, Kara B and Mary Rees F.

1. Minutes accepted as presented and motion passed.

2. March food for the Food Pantry will be peanut butter and jelly.

3. Meals on Wheels: Joan and Dwane Clements are new volunteers and did three days during the week, however Lillian Mink fell on the ice getting out of her car and is recovering. Ginny Becker-Commings also took a day when Barb Greenwald was unable to volunteer. If you know of any other possible people who would be able to help with this important project, please contact Alyson. Our next delivery date will be the end of May.

4. PADS continues to need volunteers on the 2^nd Wednesday of the month, which is March 12^th. The volunteers for this month so far will be J Fazel, Kelly Stover, Alyson Beucler & Mary Rees Freeman.

5. The Soup Kettle is this Tuesday, March 18^th at Zion Lutheran Church from 4-6:30pm. Mary Rees Freeman will check the church for determining and will meet with J Fazel to check out his supply of fresh vegetables on Monday for the meal as well. Mary Rees Freeman suggested in adding a time breakdown in the bulletin and for the e-mail blast to reflect the activity. Such as: 4-5:30pm meal preparation and dining room set-up, 5:30-6:30pm serving the meal to the guests and 6:15-6:45pm is clean-up and dinning room re-set.

6. Mission Work: Sheila Burris reported that the proposal to send volunteers to Humboldt Park UMC to help them facilitate an office move in their building had to be cancelled because we did not receive any members to volunteer for this project.

7. Red Cross Flood Buckets and Health Kits - This information will need to be placed in the bulletin for the collection to begin for this project. Kelly and Kara will work on getting several buckets and kits put together for a display and collection area in the Fellowship Hall. Kelly noted that the disinfectant dish soap was omitted from the list and this needs to be corrected.

8. Farmers Market: Sandy Kaptain will get the schedule and will continue to work with these groups to have several market days here at Epworth and also work on signage for these events.

9. The committee also discussed the possibility of having another plant sale in conjunction with the Garage Sale that is scheduled for June 7^th.

10. Nothing but Nets Project – Alyson complemented Kelly and Kara on a job well done on the bulletin board. The committee discussed options for a fundraiser for this project. Maybe something with the children like basketball free throw game/competition. For the smaller children maybe something like Bozo buckets. It was suggested that maybe we could do this in conjunction with one of the Wednesday evening dinners before the end of April. These dates are Wednesday, April 9^th and Sunday, April 13^th. We will ask to do a child’s time presentation with a net during the services.

11. The Warren Village in Denver Colorado is the Rainbow project for March.

12. New Projects: Kara is working on a new approach and design for the newsletter. Discussion on Garden Plots being offered to members for rent on our church property on unused land.

Next Mission Meeting will be April 20, 2008 at 9:45am.

Financial Committee Minutes 4-8-08

Financial Committee Minutes

April 8, 2008

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Income shortfall plus Easter gifts were very small
• Some projects are over budget. Is reallocation of memorial money necessary?
• “Other Pockets” campaign kickoff is April 27. Committee is in place.

In attendance: Donald B, Bill B, Joe B, Pastor David Newhouse, Carol W, and Susan C.

Approval of Minutes: Bill moved, and Don seconded, that we approve the minutes of the last meeting. Approved.

Treasurer’s Report: In Paul’s absence the committee reviewed the reports he had sent. Our income is down, and the extra expenses from the long, snowy winter have negatively impacted our budget. The numbers for the Pastor’s Pension and Insurance were confusing to those present. Susan will ask Paul for clarification for the May meeting. Paul asked us to note that the Multimedia bequest fund was at $0.00, but there are still bills being presented for it. Also, there is only $1860.23 left in the Kitchen Hood bequest fund, but we still have several thousand dollars of expenses for it. Part of the concern is that some of the Architect’s fees we’ve paid from this fund were for drawings not related to the kitchen hood. Pastor David relayed that Ron Stout has requested from the architecture firm a breakdown of their fees by project. We will need to address with Paul and Jan Starner, the Trustees member in charge of Memorials, how to cover these additional expenses, possibly through reallocation of Memorial funds.

This raised the issue of Susan asking the Church Council Members to have their committee members turn in all receipts to the committee chairs who would then turn them in to Paul. This would allow the chairpersons to track the monies allocated to his or her own committee rather than having Paul carry this extra responsibility. It would also give Paul the information he needs when paying bills.

Financial Secretary, Carol Westphal, told us that statements will be mailed to members on Thursday, April 10. Carol was asked to furnish the Missions Committee with information about money that is collected for mission projects so they can keep the congregation posted on how our mission money is spent.

New Business

Taste Of Epworth: This event is June 21, at church. Susan signed up Finance to be in charge of drinks.

Communicating Financial Data: We have discussed ways to let the congregation know, on a regular basis, where our finances stand. Pastor David inserted into the April newsletter a monthly summary of our finances for the first 2 ½ months of this year. Should this be a regular feature or is there another way we would like to disseminate

Finance Minutes, 4/8/08 p. 2

this information? Should the “Goal” amount be the annual budget divided by 12, or the monthly budget as listed in our actual budget?

Special Mailings: This year our Easter gifts totaled only $240, a huge decrease in what is usually given on that day. Paul asked us to consider how not having the special holiday mailing we’ve had in years past could have affected the gifts this year. Easter is considered an “extra” Sunday for our budget, but this year the low gift total didn’t make a difference in the budget. Should we reinstate the special mailings for Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas?

Legacy Giving: This will be discussed after Lay Leadership has an opportunity to meet and appoint the committee per the Annual Conference.

Comprehensive project list: Although we have many projects in progress, a comprehensive list isn’t readily available. This may affect how some of the Memorial money is allocated or reallocated. We also need to discuss what may be some false assumptions about the availability of some of the Memorial money. This will also be important to the “Other Pockets” campaign. One of their tasks is to explain where the funds raised in this campaign will be spent.

Old Business

Capital Campaign: Our “Other Pockets” campaign will officially kick off on Sunday, April 27. Pastor David already inserted into the April newsletter a one page description of the campaign, its purpose and goals. The campaign committee is not complete, but the most of the positions have been filled. Pastor David suggested e-mailing Kevin Gowdy, our consultant, about including “economic stimulus” checks in the campaign program.

Annual Garage Sale: Susan confirmed with Janis Denman that she will be chairing the annual garage sale. The dates have been set for May 30 and 31. There will also be flowers for sale for Heifer Project, food and kids games.

Electronic sign: This sign should be installed by August. It will have 6” letters, and will be visible from Randall Road.

Adjourned at 8:17. Our next meeting is Tuesday, May 13, at 7 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Susan Collins, Chair

Stewardship Meeting Notes 4/15/08

Stewardship Minutes Meeting 4/15/08

In attendance: Steve M, Kara B, Pastor David Newhouse, & Carole B

Highlights:

Reflection Centers focus will change to Service 5/3

Fall Financial Stewardship Campaign- important to have a personal touch and to celebrate!

Reflection Centers-

We will continue 3 stations: SonRise Room, Tower, and back of Sanctuary each one focusing on a different aspect of the stewardship of service using SSS as a spring board for it.

Ideas- Job Jar, branch with ideas attached, hall tree w/ balloons attached having opportunities for service on them(along the line of the giving tree)

Ideas for Service-

“Mainly Man” theme for one?,

note writing with addresses attached,

making of knit items to be used as gifts,

garden planting,

shut ins-offer them opportunities

travel w/David to serve communion

Talk to Trustees about physical jobs around church(Steve will contact Al Rohde, Carole will contact Brad Bohner)

Promote in worship thru interviews or skits- thought needs fine tuning

Taste of Epworth, June 21^st- 3-7 We discussed appetizers- assted skewers but we may be asked to do a different course so will work out at next meeting

Fall Campaign- We looked at various programs, will future discuss next meeting when everyone is in attendance but do feel that the personal touch and celebration aspects are very important!

Epworth UMC Church Council Meeting, 3-25-08

Church Council Meeting, 3-25-08

Program Focus

Members Present: Carole and Paul B, Pastor David, Gloria C, Mollie D, Kara B, Carol L, David and Ginny C, Susan C, Patti F, Kelly A, Amy Z. Guests: Doug D, Confirmand Michael W.

Gathering Time:

The Gift of Easter: Carole read the Lectionary lesson for Sunday, March 30^th from John 20, 19-21, along with summarizing the comforting Word…. we all are sent as Jesus was sent.

The February minutes were corrected. Ginny C. moved to accept; Kelley seconded the motion.

Mechanics:

The April/May calendar was passed for review, corrections, and additions. Coffee Hour sign-up was urged. August is still “available”….remember, the lengthened timeframe (until noon.) Kara shared “…second-service attendees are not yet accustomed to having coffee and/or tea available; perhaps a coffee cart visually positioned in the hall doorway would be more inviting?”.

Nuture People in Faith:

Child Led Ministry Plan: Carole asked for ideas and suggestions of persons to lead this endeavor. Do we need a specific group? How best can we cover all aspects of the program? Comments: promote the Cradle Roll, pass information to the Education Committee, a quarterly Sunday School Open House to share the curriculum, emphasis on a Child Friendly environment and for Wednesday Night Suppers, high chairs and booster seats should be available .Carole then asked, “Does anyone come to mind?” Several names were suggested….(and will be considered).

Stewardship Focus: Several new areas, located throughout the church, have been designated as Reflection Areas for individual prayer and medication Booklets are available at each table.

Healthy Church Team: Time for another survey (available April 6^th) ….where are our weak areas?

Witness:

Leadership Training: “Go to the mountain, Go to the Masses” training will be held Saturday, April 12^th in Glenview. The training relates closely to the Outreach Conference to be held the same day. See Carole for further information.

Outreach Brainstorming: David Comings – The Dancing with the Star plan (simply stated) is to contact 20,000 families with young children and hope to have 2,000 requests for EUMC information, and 200 families join the church by the end of 2008. The Rally held March 9^th helped familiarize those attending with the Plan. The Worship committee is also involved.

Taste of Epworth: Kelly - June 21^st is the date; time is 3-7 PM. Each committee is to choose a type of food they wish to contribute. Kelly passed a sign-up sheet – see below.

Resource and Support Areas:

Super Service Saturday: Mollie - Date: April 26^th ; Time: 10-4. Thus far, only 30 persons have registered…The cost includes a tee shirt, lunch, and an opportunity to do a good deed for the community! The day will begin with an uplifting, upbeat Worship Service in the sanctuary, break for lunch then out to the service-project sites….Habitat Restore, Hawthorne Nature Center, Sherman West Court or remain at the church working with Cards for Cancer. Cost to participate: $15/person, $10/kids, $40/family.

Other Topics and Updates:

Capital Campaign: Susan Collins explained a fund raising endeavor, “Other Pockets,” April 27^th to June 1^st. The premise is a one-time, “big-ticket-item”, gift to be converted to usable cash. $150,000 –$200,000 is necessary to commence numerous church-improvement projects. A gift example (already received) is a coin collection. More information will be shared shortly.

The Olwin Home will be vacated during the summer.

Joys and Concerns were shared. The meeting closed with prayer. Next meeting is April 22^nd.

Ginny Jensen

Taste of Epworth 2008 Sign up List

Salad

1. Education Choose your own

2 Lay Leadership – Homemade Ice Cream,

Appetizers

Outreach/Hospitality/Stewardship Dessert

Main Dishes UMW/Womens Study

Worship

New Creations Preschool Drinks

Side Dishes Finance

1. Youth

2. Still plenty of opportunities for others to sign up

Drinks Still would like UMM, Staff/Parish, Trustees, Missions

Finance

Epworth UMC Financial Committee Minutes 3-11-08

Financial Committee Minutes

March 11, 2008

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Majority of meeting spent on discussion of “Miracle” or “Other Pockets” Sunday and the presentation on Monday, March 10 by Solid Ground Stewardship.

In attendance: Donald B, Bill B, Joe B, Carole and Paul B, John O, Pastor David Newhouse, Carol W, and Susan C.

Approval of Minutes: Don moved, and Paul seconded, that we approve the minutes of the last meeting. Approved.

Treasurer’s Report: Income is down although we have not had any of our extra collections yet. This will change since Easter is in March this year. Expenses are up, too, in part due to the excess of snow removal expenses as well as an increase in the cost of utilities. Pastor David requested that monthly income and expense figures be provided as they have been previously. Susan and Paul will get those together before the April meeting.

Capital Campaign: This discussion had several parts. Joe, Susan and Pastor David briefly reported on some of the companies with whom each had spoken regarding our Capital Campaign needs. This will be revisited at a later meeting with more details.

The majority of the discussion centered on the presentation on Monday, March 10, by Kevin Gowdy and Ann Coon of Solid Ground Stewardship Services. They were invited to present because of a stewardship option they had put forward to Pastor David during a conference call he’d had with them. The presentation included a 2 pronged approach to our Capital Campaign needs that avoids a conflict with either our annual fall stewardship campaign or our fall 2008 campaign for new members.

As an initial step, Solid Ground recommended an “Other Pockets” or “Miracle Sunday” campaign where our congregants are asked to look elsewhere, outside of their finances, to make a one time donation. Examples given were: a boat, jewelry, cars, stocks or bonds etc. This could be done in the spring of 2008 as a short term, 4-5 weeks, campaign that would let us begin working on some of the renovation projects slated for Epworth. They would help us prepare mailings and presentations for this. We will be responsible for organizing a group of 8-10 persons to work with Solid Ground.

The second step would be a full scale Capital Campaign in spring 2009. This would allow us more time to plan properly for the campaign and also to look at other companies that work with churches on capital campaigns. If we use Solid Ground for both, the fee charged to us for “Miracle Sunday” will be deducted from the fee for the full scale capital campaign held in spring 2009.

One concern is that a “Miracle Sunday” not dilute future contributions members will consider making during the spring 2009 campaign. Another is that we not put off any new members by beginning our Capital Campaign just after they have begun attending.

The committee voted unanimously to hire Solid Ground to work with us on a “Miracle Sunday” campaign. We agreed to kick off the campaign on Sunday, April 27, and to have our wrap up on Sunday, June 1. Susan will contact Kevin Gowdy and Ann Coon to be sure these dates will work for them, too.

Annual Garage Sale: Susan confirmed with Janis Denman that she is chairing the Annual Garage Sale. No date has been set yet because the calendar is full, but it should be the first or second weekend in June. (May 31 or June 7?)

Adjourned at 8:43 P.M. Next meeting is Tuesday, April 8 at 7:00 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Susan Collins, Chair

Fascinating tale, about one of the least known ministers in Epworth’s history (up until now).

What follows is a fascinating tale, about one of the least known ministers in Epworth’s history (up until now).

It starts at the same time as Arthur Rubinstein started his career in 1900.

Arthur Rubenstein was one of the greatest concert pianists that ever lived. His career started in Berlin in 1900 with his debut concert. He turned 13 while in Berlin. His long and illustrious career lasted until he died at the age of 95.

Studying music and German in Berlin was Miss Bertha Drew. In 1898 Miss Drew graduated Magna Cum Laude from Radcliffe College where she was the Class President. Apparently she met the Rubenstein family as part of her music studies.

For his 13^th birthday, Miss Drew gave Arthur a kiss. Although she was 24 years old, the effect on the young Arthur was to give him a significant case of puppy love which lasted for some time. Unfortunately, for Arthur at least, Miss Drew was dating Mort, who was a young American Minister studying in Berlin. She and Mort would go to the various German sites, attend concerts, and appeared to be falling in love. I cannot confirm, but I expect they even attended Arthur’s debut concert.

Mort’s full name was Morton Culver Hartzell. He was converted to Christianity at age 7. After attending Drew seminary, he was ordained as a Methodist minister. He then attended the University of Berlin in 1899-1900 He was a member of the Rock River Conference, of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Northern Illinois. In 1901 he received an appointment at Epworth Methodist Episcopal church in Elgin Illinois, where he served for 2 years. During that time, no one at Epworth ever took a picture of Rev. Hartzell.

In 1904, after leaving Epworth, he married Miss Bertha Drew, whom he had met in Berlin.

Rev Hartzell eventually ended up as the minister at South Park Avenue Methodist church in the Douglas Neighborhood, and was there at least in the year 1909. During that year he was also the President of the Douglas Neighborhood Club, an interdenominational group fighting the “cess-pool” and “white slavery” of the Douglas Neighborhood, referring to the increase in prostitution in the area. Mayor Busse of Chicago and Alderman Milton Foreman, tried to have Rev. Hartzell removed from his pulpit, apparently due to his efforts to rid the neighborhood of vice and corruption. A “near riot” broke out at the church (according to the Elgin Daily Courier). This “riot” occurred because members of the Neighborhood Club had entered the church to support Rev. Hartzell during a congregational meeting called to determine his status at the church. The presiding elder, Rev. McAfee had the members of the club thrown out. (I have yet to find out the results of what happened).

Morton died in 1916 at the age of 40. Bertha died in 1950, remaining active in education and Church music.

There is one more interesting twist to the story. Rev. Hartzell’s father was Rev. Joseph Hartzell a Methodist missionary. The 1941 movie “One Foot in Heaven” received an Oscar nomination for Best Picture. The movie takes inspiration from the life of Rev. Joseph Hartzell and family.

Finally, up until now, we did not have a picture of Rev. Hartzell. That HAS CHANGED. Arthur Rubinstein lived in Spain for a few years. There is a Spanish website with a great deal of information regarding Mr. Rubinstein. They also have two very nice pictures of Morton Culver Hartzell.

Ted Whittington, 2/16/2008

Epworth Church Historian